Camping at Hanging Rock State Park in Danbury

Hanging Rock State Park, located in Danbury, North Carolina, offers some of the best camping opportunities in the region. With its stunning rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and an extensive trail system, the park is a prime spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you prefer traditional tent camping, RV sites, or more rustic backcountry camping, this park has a variety of options for every camper.

### Adventure Guide to Camping at Hanging Rock State Park

Family Campground

The main campground features 73 sites, including both RV and tent accommodations. Each site comes with a picnic table, grill, and fire ring, though no electric or water hookups are available at individual sites. Restrooms with hot showers and drinking water are located nearby. Campers appreciate the easy access to popular trails, such as the Hanging Rock Trail and Lower Cascades Falls.

Group Camping

For larger gatherings, Hanging Rock State Park offers five group campsites, each accommodating up to 16 people. These sites are set away from the main campground, offering privacy and a quieter experience. Fire pits and picnic tables are provided, but campers need to walk a short distance from the parking area. These sites are ideal for scout troops, church groups, or family reunions seeking an immersive outdoor experience.

Backcountry Camping

For those looking for a more secluded adventure, the park offers backcountry camping by permit. These sites require hiking in with gear, providing a truly off-the-grid experience. No amenities are available, so campers must bring plenty of water, food, and waste disposal supplies. The reward is breathtaking views, star-filled skies, and peaceful surroundings far from the crowds.

### Local Insights

The park's elevation of 2,579 feet provides a cooler climate, even in summer.
The area’s rich history includes landmarks dating back to Native American tribes and early European settlers.
Several film productions have used the park’s dramatic cliffs and unique geology as a backdrop.

### Visitor Tips

Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Early summer can be busy.
What to bring: Sturdy hiking boots, bug spray, firewood (outside firewood is prohibited), and a rain tarp for sudden downpours.
How to get there: Located about 30 miles north of Winston-Salem, take NC-8 to Hanging Rock Park Road (approx. 45 minutes of driving).

Adventure Map

Reviews

Felicia Baldya month ago

It was nice we also was tent camping. It was cold when we went. We will be coming back for summer for the lake. We were not able to all the trails. The hike was nice the water fall was nice winter scenery. Will be coming back o yeah every one at the visitor center was nice friendly. They have little Museum inside too.

Heather Davis3 months ago

I’ve lived in N.C. all my life and first time visiting HRSP. It has everything I love. The views are beautiful, there are waterfalls, streams, and a lake! If you want to picnic, this is the place to go! We hit it at peak leaf season and the colors were amazing. The trails are well maintained and marked. I will definitely be back! This is now one of my favorite State Parks!

Laila LaTisha Bradford2 months ago

This was a beautiful place to go on a hike. Once you make it tobthe top the views are breathtaking and worth it. It took me a little over 2 hours to reach the top, but I took some time to enjoy the views and drink my hot tea. It was very cold at the top. When I arrived it was only 30 degrees. As a solo hiker I felt safe. I suggest emptying your bladder first. These hikes are not for weak, but doable. This park is free and the bathrooms at the visiting center are clean. There are several trails here, so I'll be returning for sure.

Anastasiia Sveshnikova3 weeks ago

Absolutely incredible waterfalls. Easy access from both parking lots to upper and lower waterfalls. It's not hard trails, but partially it's stairs. It's so good, that you can go so close to water. Even in the winter, this place also beautiful. Partially frozen waterfalls are amazing. A lot of space for barbeque near water. Free admission. Restrooms were closed for the winter season. That's why in the parking lot there were bio toilets. But bio toilets were just in the parking lot near Upper Cascade falls. We plan to come back there in the summer.

nightshadesdreama month ago

A beautiful place to hike with multiple trails of varying lengths and challenge levels. Make sure to visit lower cascade falls, it's the prettiest waterfall in the park. The hanging Rock trail is worth the climb, it has a beautiful view.

Camping

Camping at Hanging Rock State Park in Danbury